I’ve worked with plenty of people who’ve mentally quit their jobs weeks or months before giving their notice. Their energy is gone, and their motivation’s shot. They’re just clocking in until something better comes along.
I understand this approach because I’ve done it myself, and at the same time, I think people are missing an opportunity to make the most out of their remaining time at a job they hate.
👉 Instead of seeing those final weeks as wasted time where you trudge in every day to a job you loathe, why not view them as your new practice field?
All the things you’ve been too afraid to try, like pushing back on unclear feedback, speaking up in meetings, setting boundaries, and asking for a new project. Now’s your chance, because if things go wrong, so what? You’re already leaving.
I’ll usually see their eyes light up at the idea of treating their office as a playground for interpersonal skills. “You’re right, I can start trying new things.”
Then, off we go strategizing what they want to work on first, while they continue searching for their next job. It’s incredible to see what people are willing to explore once the fear of losing their job is removed from the equation.
💡We think growth comes in new environments, but sometimes, the best learning happens in the one you’ve already written off. You don’t have to stay, but while you’re still there, don’t waste the chance to get better.
What reframe would you suggest to people who are in a similar position?
References: Watzlawick, P. The construction of clinical “realities.” 1996.
Post Title: Sometimes, the goal isn’t to show people the world as it is. It’s to help them see it in a way they can live with.